The parkland managed by Vancouver-Clark parks & Recreation is categorized into two systems: Urban Parks and Regional Parks. Each offers a slightly different experience.

The Urban Park system consists of urban-level parks within the Vancouver urban growth boundary. These properties include neighborhood parks (3-5 acres in size), community parks (15-100 acres in size), and open space (i.e., forested areas, wetlands). Developed park sites within the Urban system offer space for active and intensive recreation, including sports fields, play equipment, and ball courts.

The Regional Park system consists primarily of conservation and habitat properties countywide. The system include regional parks (i.e., Lewisville, Lacamas Lake), special facilities (i.e., Harmony Sports Complex), and greenway corridors (i.e., E Fork Lewis River, Salmon Creek).

The department's ability to provide adequate open space and recreation opportunities to residents of the county is, in part, measured against adopted park standards for each system. Here's how we measure up:

Urban Park System:

Acquisition standard: 6 acres / 1000 people
Population* (2000): 251,348
Acres needed to meet standard: 1,508 ac
Current Acreage: 1,526 ac
Current Surplus / (Deficit): 18 ac

Development standard: 4.25 acres / 1000 people
Population* (2000): 251,348
Acres needed to meet standard: 1,068 ac
Current Acreage: 653 ac
Current Surplus / (Deficit): (415) ac

*Note: Population for Vancouver urban area only.

Regional Park System:

Acquisition standard: 10 acres / 1000 people
Population (2000): 340,011
Acres needed to meet standard: 3,400 ac
Current Acreage: 2,300 ac
Current Surplus / (Deficit): (1,100) ac

Development standard: 18% of total site
Acres needed to meet standard: 612 ac
Current Acreage: 417 ac
Current Surplus / (Deficit): (195) ac

Refer to park acquisition and development programs for additional information.